Poland's First AI Radio Channel: Virtual Hosts Take the Spotlight in a New Media Experiment Sparks Debate

Radio Krakow has launched a new channel called OFF Radio Krakow, aimed at Polish youth aged 18 to 26. This innovative channel features three virtual AI hosts, designed to resonate with Generation Z. The hosts, named Emilia, Jakub, and Alex, each embody different aspects of contemporary youth culture.

Emilia, a 20-year-old journalism student, specializes in pop culture. With her long curls and lively personality, she presents topics on music, film, and fashion in a fun and engaging manner.

Jakub, a 22-year-old acoustic engineering student, has a calm demeanor and a passion for sound technology and production. He shares insights into the technical details behind music creation, adding depth to the channel’s content.

Alex is a social activist who addresses issues of identity and LGBTQ+ topics, alongside an interest in psychology. His fashionable and approachable image aims to connect with listeners on a personal level.

The launch of this channel has sparked significant discussion. Mateusz Demski, a former host at Radio Krakow, initiated a petition to highlight the job losses faced by long-time staff, many of whom have dedicated nearly a decade to the station. He expressed concerns over AI’s role in media, stating, "The AI channel sets a dangerous precedent. While AI is becoming an integral part of daily life, I believe media should be created by humans."

In response to these developments, users on the Radio Krakow website voiced their opinions, emphasizing that culture is a human creation, not a robotic one, and raised questions about intellectual property rights concerning AI-generated content. Some expressed apprehension about society's readiness to let AI shape the cultural values and perspectives of young people.

Marcin Pytlik, the editor of Radio Krakow, stated that this experimental phase will last three months, after which an evaluation will take place. He clarified that no one has been laid off as a result of the AI channel’s introduction.